Qualitative data synthesis. Primary and secondary outcomes were summarized qualitatively for each study. The sample size and demographics, setting, funding source, treatment and comparator characteristics (e.g. type, dose, and duration), study quality, and methods of adjustment for confounders (where applicable) were recorded and summarized in the text, and summary tables.
To determine the clinical utility of routine hormonal blood tests in identifying and affecting therapeutic outcomes for endocrine causes of ED (KQ 1), the reviewers identified relevant studies and synthesized data for two following constructs:

1. The prevalence of hormonal abnormalities (hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia, abnormal levels of luteinizing and/or follicle-stimulating hormones) in patients with ED
2. The efficacy of hormonal therapies in patients with the above-mentioned hormonal abnormalities for improving clinical symptoms of ED.

The two constructs (i.e., prevalence of hormonal abnormalities and efficacy of available hormonal treatments) jointly determine the clinical utility of routine hormonal blood tests. For example, the administration of routine hormonal blood tests might be justified only if the prevalence of hormonal abnormalities in patients with ED was relatively high (i.e., above a pre-specified threshold) and the available hormonal therapies in affecting symptoms of ED in this subgroup of patients were effective.

Thus, the results for KQ 1 are presented in two sub-sections:

1) the prevalence of hormonal abnormalities in ED patients and

2) the efficacy of hormonal therapy in treating ED in patients with hormonal abnormalities

Quantitative synthesis. The decision whether to perform statistical pooling of individual studies was based on clinical and methodological judgment. In the case of outcomes for which meta-analysis was deemed appropriate, we extracted quantitative data (e.g. number of subjects in each group, mean, standard deviation) from reports using a standardized data extraction form that included intervention characteristics and outcome variables at baseline and followup intervals.

Many men will develop erectile dysfunction after the age of 65. These men often find help with various FDA approved drugs. However, there are an increasing amount of younger men who are experiencing dysfunction and knowing the causes and risk factors can help many of them prevent the condition. Since there are a number of physical and non-physical causes of erectile dysfunction, it is vital to take the necessary changes needed holistically, to ensure that you are safeguarding your sexual health.

First, it has been determined that stress, anxiety, and depression play an important role in erectile dysfunction. These factors combined with an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to dysfunction. However, these root causes are often the easiest to treat without medicinal intervention. Alcohol use, substance abuse, and smoking are also attributed to erectile dysfunction. Therefore, the first steps in preventing dysfunction are to include the abstinence from illegal substances, quitting smoking, drinking alcohol only in moderation, reducing stress and anxiety, and treating depression as it occurs. By taking these steps, you are ensuring that you are doing everything possible to prevent erectile dysfunction and are protecting your health. Canadian Cialis

Often erectile dysfunction is caused by non-physical factors, as mentioned above. However, there are a number of physical conditions and diseases that will increase your chance of developing dysfunction. By understanding that these conditions increase your risk, you can speak with your health care professional and devise a strategy that will help you prevent the condition instead of having to seek a cure for erectile dysfunction. Two of the most common diseases associated with developing ED are Diabetes and Atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.

To obtain an erection three things must take place. First, the brain must receive sexual stimuli. The brain in return sends signals to the nervous system, where the nerves surrounding the penis respond. The circulatory system also comes into play. Once the nerves surrounding the penis respond, increased blood flow to the penis causes the penis to be engorged and an erection takes place. Diseases such as Diabetes and Atherosclerosis interfere with both the nervous system and the circulatory system.

Men who suffer from Diabetes may develop substantial nerve damage. This includes damage to the nerves surrounding the penis. In fact, over 80% of men with Diabetes will develop ED (as compared to only 25% of men without health conditions). Since Diabetes is such a common cause of erectile dysfunction it is imperative that you speak about this concern with your health care practitioner to ensure that you take the proper steps necessary to prevent dysfunction.

Heart disease and high blood pressure can also lead to erectile dysfunction. As these conditions impede the circulatory system and reduce blood flow, they also cause a significant amount of nerve damage. In fact, current research is beginning to recognize erectile dysfunction as an early sign of heart disease. By preventing Heart Disease through necessary lifestyle changes and monitoring high blood pressure, you can rest assured that you are also taking the steps necessary to prevent erectile dysfunction. If you have been diagnosed with Diabetes, Heart Disease, High Cholesterol, or High Blood Pressure, then you should consult with your health care practitioner and determine the best strategy necessary to gain control of these health issues.